Despite the popularity of the ‘pay it forward’ (PIF) concept in textbooks and popular culture, to date, no study has tested the effectiveness of a brief, one-time PIF activity on the well-being of those who do good and those who receive good. To test this, 83 undergraduates (‘givers’) performed random kind acts for 1.5 h....

The VIA Classification characterizes six culturally defined virtues as latent variables underlying 24 character strengths. Factor analyses of measures based on the Classification usually suggest 4–5 factors that do not correspond well to traditional lists of virtues....

This applied case study centers on two aspects of Peterson’s research as introduced into a large K-12 school in Australia: (i) creating enabling institutions and (ii) applications of character strengths. The paper describes five character strengths initiatives....

The work of Chris Peterson and his colleagues provides a context and rationale for creating a new paradigm for character education....

Positive psychotherapy (PPT) is a therapeutic approach broadly based on the principles of positive psychology....

Editorial In memory of Chris Peterson: Introduction to special issue

In this Podcast, Dr. Robert Brooks addresses intrinsic motivation, the concept of mindsets, "resilient" mindsets, and how to reinforce resilient mindsets all in the context of coaching. 

IOC Founder Carol Kauffman interviews Ryan Niemiec, one of the leaders of the Positive Psychology movement.  He is the developer of the VIA Character Strengths and discusses them in action: Improving Well-being, Mindfulness, Leadership, and Teamwork .

Positive emotions have been linked with better health, longer life, and greater well-being in numerous scientific studies. On the other hand, chronic anger, worry, and hostility increase the risk of developing heart disease, as people react to these feelings with raised blood pressure and stiffening of blood vessels....

Steve Hayes, PhD discusses his Acceptance and Commitment Training and its contribution to emotional agility.